10 Fun Facts About Thomas Jefferson That You Never Knew

You’ve probably heard of Thomas Jefferson, the 3rd President of the United States. But, do you know any fun facts about Thomas Jefferson that might surprise you?

Thomas Jefferson often receives celebration for shaping the United States, but his legacy goes beyond politics. From his vast library and architectural creations to his love for wine and mastery of six languages, Jefferson’s accomplishments go far beyond what many know. In this article, we’ll dive into these lesser-known aspects of his life, offering a fresh perspective on this fascinating figure in American history.

Here are 10 fun facts about Thomas Jefferson you should be aware of.

1. Jefferson Demonstrated Versatility in Both the Arts and Sciences

Jefferson excelled in architecture, philosophy, and science. He embodied the Renaissance ideal of a polymath, with interests spanning multiple disciplines.

Historical Context and Clarifying Myths:

• Jefferson’s diverse skills reflected the Enlightenment belief in the power of human potential and reason.

• His scientific pursuits, while impressive, were rooted in curiosity rather than groundbreaking discoveries.

• It’s a common misconception that Jefferson was equally skilled in all areas. For instance, his contributions to architecture were more practical than innovative, heavily borrowing from Palladian styles.

2. Thomas Jefferson Had His Own Massive Private Library

Jefferson was an avid reader, collecting over 6,500 books. His collection helped shape the Library of Congress.

Historical Context and Clarifying Myths:

• Jefferson’s love for books came from his belief that knowledge is the foundation of democracy. He once said, “I cannot live without books.”

• After the War of 1812, when the Library of Congress burned down, Jefferson sold his entire library to help rebuild it.

• Though his library was vast, it didn’t last long. Jefferson struggled financially and couldn’t grow his collection after selling it.

• Some believe Jefferson read every book he owned, but his letters show he collected books for their intellectual value, not for reading every one.

3. Jefferson Designed Monticello and the University of Virginia

Jefferson’s architectural talent shone in his designs for Monticello and the University of Virginia. Both sites are UNESCO World Heritage Sites today.

Historical Context and Clarifying Myths:

• Jefferson’s style was influenced by classical Roman and Palladian designs, showing his admiration for ancient civilizations.

• Monticello and the University of Virginia represent Jefferson’s vision to blend beauty with functionality in both public and private spaces.

• It’s a common belief that Jefferson built Monticello, but enslaved workers and skilled craftsmen did the labor. It was a collective effort.

• Monticello didn’t get completed in Jefferson’s lifetime, as often assumed. The house underwent multiple redesigns, some finished after his death.

4. Jefferson Mastered Six Languages, Reflecting His Deep Intellectual Curiosity

Jefferson spoke six languages: English, French, Italian, Spanish, Latin, and Greek. This ability reflected his diplomatic roles and classical education.

Historical Context and Clarifying Myths:

• Jefferson’s multilingualism helped him during his time as the U.S. Minister to France and with diplomatic correspondence.

• Elite figures in his time studied ancient languages like Latin and Greek. Jefferson’s proficiency in these languages showed his disciplined approach to learning.

• While he mastered six languages, Jefferson wasn’t fluent in all of them. He was stronger in reading Latin and Greek than in speaking them.

• Many believe Jefferson learned these languages effortlessly, but his letters show years of study and practice.

5. His Love for Wine Played a Significant Role in His Life

Jefferson was one of America’s first wine connoisseurs. He imported French wines and even tried growing wine grapes at Monticello.

Historical Context and Clarifying Myths:

• Jefferson’s time in France influenced his passion for wine and his attempts to cultivate vineyards in Virginia.

• He kept detailed records about wine, showing early American agricultural ambitions.

• Despite his efforts, Jefferson’s vineyards at Monticello failed due to pests and unsuitable conditions. He focused instead on importing wine.

• While Jefferson enjoyed wine, he didn’t popularize it for all Americans. His wine tastes mostly appealed to the elite.

6. Jefferson Promoted Science in Education, Especially Astronomy

Jefferson promoted science and ensured astronomy was taught at the University of Virginia. He even designed what may have been the first observatory in the U.S.

Historical Context and Clarifying Myths:

• Jefferson’s belief in science reflected the Enlightenment idea that science could drive progress and understanding.

• Astronomy was an essential part of the University of Virginia’s curriculum, which Jefferson founded.

• Although he designed plans for an observatory, there’s no evidence it was ever built. This debunks the claim that Jefferson created the first U.S. observatory.

• While many view Jefferson as an accomplished astronomer, he was more of a promoter than a practitioner.

7. He Is Credited with Introducing French Fries to America

Jefferson popularized French fries in America after serving them at the President’s House.

Historical Context and Clarifying Myths:

• Jefferson’s French chef likely adapted the dish to suit American tastes during his presidency.

• The term “fried potatoes in the French manner” appears in his personal records, showing his interest in European cuisine.

• Jefferson didn’t introduce French fries to the U.S. Fried potatoes were already known in Europe and brought by immigrants.

• The dish Jefferson served may have been more like sautéed potatoes, not the French fries we know today.

8. Thomas Jefferson Wrote Over 19,000 Letters

Jefferson wrote more than 19,000 letters in his lifetime, with many still praised for their eloquence and historical insight.

Historical Context and Clarifying Myths:

• Jefferson used a polygraph device to make copies of his letters, ensuring his correspondence would last for future generations.

• His letters give us a glimpse into his thoughts on politics, philosophy, and personal matters.

• People often assume Jefferson handwrote every letter. In reality, he dictated many of them or used his polygraph to make copies.

• The sheer volume of letters suggests he had aides to help with the logistics, but the ideas were his own.

9. He Played a Crucial Role in Shaping the Nation’s Finances

As the third U.S. President, Jefferson reduced national debt and cut military expenses, leaving a lasting financial legacy.

Historical Context and Clarifying Myths:

• Jefferson’s financial policies mirrored his belief in limited government and agrarian independence.

• The Louisiana Purchase, made during his presidency, doubled the size of the U.S. while following his fiscal principles.

• Though Jefferson is credited with cutting national debt, favorable economic conditions helped him achieve this, not just his policies.

• Some argue his military cuts made the U.S. vulnerable, challenging the perception of his presidency as purely positive.

10. Jefferson and John Adams Shared the Remarkable Fate of Dying on the Same Day

Jefferson and John Adams died on July 4, 1826, exactly 50 years after the Declaration of Independence was approved.

Historical Context and Clarifying Myths:

• Their deaths on such a symbolic date highlight their intertwined roles in America’s founding.

• Though both men were political rivals, they became friends, exchanging letters that reflected their changing perspectives.

• The “divine coincidence” narrative overshadows the fact that both men were gravely ill, and painkillers played a role in their synchronized passing.

• Some romanticize their friendship, but their relationship was complex, and at times, strained.

Key Takeaways from the fun facts about Thomas Jefferson

Thomas Jefferson was a polymath with a diverse legacy in arts, sciences, and politics.

• Jefferson excelled in multiple fields, but his contributions to architecture and science were often more practical than groundbreaking.

• His extensive private library played a key role in the Library of Congress, but financial troubles hindered its long-term growth.

• Jefferson’s architectural designs, such as Monticello and the University of Virginia, were influenced by classical styles and built by enslaved workers.

• He mastered six languages, but his fluency was stronger in reading than speaking, showing his disciplined approach to learning.

• Despite his passion for wine, Jefferson’s efforts to cultivate vineyards at Monticello were unsuccessful due to environmental factors.

In summary, fun facts about Thomas Jefferson reveal a legacy full of complexity and achievement, beyond the myths and misconceptions.

Tejas Tahmankar

FAQs

1. What is Thomas Jefferson’s nickname?

Thomas Jefferson was often called “Long Tom” due to his height of 6’ 2 ½”. This nickname highlighted his imposing stature.

2. What are the things Thomas Jefferson invented?

Thomas Jefferson invented several items, including a macaroni machine, a revolving chair with a leg rest and writing arm, and specialized iron plows for hillside plowing.